Our client is seeking a hands-on, forward-thinking Lead Manufacturing Engineer to take ownership of engineering initiatives within a dynamic, high-volume manufacturing environment. This is a key leadership role responsible for driving innovation, optimizing processes, and guiding a talented engineering team toward operational excellence. The ideal candidate brings a blend of technical depth, strategic thinking, and a passion for continuous improvement, with the ability to influence outcomes across multiple departments and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all phases of the engineering program, driving innovation and overcoming technical and operational challenges
• Apply and mentor others in engineering principles and advanced problem-solving methodologies
• Plan, develop, and execute complex design and process engineering projects with significant business impact
• Establish and maintain procedures, workmanship standards, and reporting structures for engineering activities
• Oversee department resources, including budgeting, forecasting, and allocation of engineering assets
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams and external partners, including customers and suppliers
• Define long-term strategic engineering goals and translate them into actionable plans and measurable objectives
• Lead cost analysis initiatives related to process, product, and equipment improvements
• Identify and eliminate non-value-added activities to improve manufacturing efficiency and throughput
• Monitor and evaluate emerging technologies and industry advancements for potential application
• Support technical problem-solving efforts with customers and suppliers as needed
• Develop engineering team capabilities through training, mentorship, and professional development initiatives
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Supply Chain, Product Development, and other departments to align engineering priorities with business goals

Qualifications

• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage effectively at all organizational levels
• Demonstrated leadership experience in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
• Deep understanding of Statistical Process Control (SPC) and Design of Experiments (DOE)
• Expertise in glass fabrication processes and thin film deposition technologies
• Knowledge of electronic performance characteristics of thin and thick films
• Proven ability to develop, implement, and sustain manufacturing systems and processes
• Experience managing project budgets and financial performance

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum of 5 years of manufacturing engineering experience
• Prior leadership or supervisory experience within an engineering or manufacturing environment

Preferred Experience

• Experience in advanced manufacturing or highly regulated production environments
• Track record of leading continuous improvement or Lean manufacturing initiatives
• Exposure to automation, advanced materials, or precision manufacturing processes
• Experience working directly with customers on technical projects or issue resolution
• Familiarity with cross-functional product development cycles

Titles Encouraged to Apply

• Senior Manufacturing Engineer
• Manufacturing Engineering Manager
• Process Engineering Lead
• Senior Process Engineer
• Engineering Supervisor (Manufacturing)
• Industrial Engineering Lead
• Advanced Manufacturing Engineer